Taught degrees

We offer a range of postgraduate training at Masters level, developed over the past 50 years with employers, international collaborators, governments, and graduates. We attract students from many different countries and academic backgrounds to postgraduate study.

If you do not already have a degree in marine science, we offer a "conversion" degree, MSc Oceanography, that enables students from any science or maths background to apply the knowledge of their first degree to the marine environment. This degree allows you to gain a foundation in interdisciplinary marine science and develop an advanced level specialisation in one or more discipline areas. We have developed 'pathways' of suggested, module choices which include:

Marine Biology and Ecology

Physical Oceanography and Climate Dynamics

Marine Biogeochemistry

Marine Geology and Geophysics

Marine Resources and Law

If you already have a degree in marine or Earth sciences, we offer opportunities for further specialisation in your field (MRes Ocean Science, MRes Geology and Geophysics). We also offer Masters degrees in specific subject areas such as MSc Engineering in the Coastal Environment and MSc Marine Environment and Resources.

Types of postgraduate degree programmes

The Master of Research (MRes) programmes includes introductory modules plus an extended research project. They form an excellent preparation for further research work.

The Master of Science (MSc) programmes are based more on taught modules, along with a shorter project. MSc programmes aim to expand subject knowledge and develop skills that are highly sought-after by employers. In many cases you can choose a named pathway within a broad-based degree structure. Many graduates of our masters programmes embark on careers in both the commerical marine and geo-related industries and the public sector. An MSc is an ideal way to deepen your knowledge in one area, particularly if your first degree was in a different discipline.